The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced that passengers at domestic airports will no longer be required to remove their shoes during security screenings at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints.
The policy, effective immediately, was unveiled today by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem as part of ongoing efforts to modernize and enhance the travel experience while maintaining stringent security standards. The decision to end the long-standing “Shoes-Off” policy, which has been in place since the early 2000s following heightened security measures post-9/11, aims to streamline the TSA checkpoint process and reduce passenger wait times.
Secretary Noem emphasized that the change is made possible by advancements in screening technology and a robust, multi-layered security approach that ensures safety without the need for passengers to remove their footwear.
“This is a major step toward a more pleasant and efficient passenger experience,” Noem stated, adding that the policy aligns with the Trump administration’s broader vision to usher in a “new Golden Age of American travel.”
The new policy is expected to significantly improve the traveler experience by reducing inconvenience and expediting the screening process. Passengers will still be required to comply with other TSA security measures, including identity verification, Secure Flight vetting, and screening of carry-on items, ensuring that security remains uncompromised.
The DHS highlighted that cutting-edge technological advancements, such as improved imaging systems and threat detection algorithms, have enabled this shift without sacrificing safety. This change is part of a series of traveler-focused initiatives introduced by the DHS under the current administration.
Earlier in 2025, the TSA rolled out the “Serve with Honor, Travel with Ease” program, which offers benefits like discounted TSA PreCheck enrollment and expedited access lanes for uniformed service members and their families at select airports. Additionally, the implementation of REAL ID requirements at airport checkpoints in May 2025 has achieved a 94 percent compliance rate, further streamlining security processes.
The elimination of the “Shoes-Off” policy is welcomed by frequent travelers and families alike, as it reduces one of the more cumbersome aspects of airport security. The DHS expects the change to cut wait times at TSA checkpoints significantly, enhancing overall airport efficiency. As air travel continues to rebound and evolve, this policy reflects a balance between maintaining high security standards and improving the passenger experience, aligning with the administration’s goal of modernizing America’s transportation systems.
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Susan Shrestha
View More PostsSusan Shrestha is a Europe-based journalist. He covers a wide range of topics, from local matters to global affairs. Shrestha previously worked as a reporter for Khasokhas in Nepal.
